Broccoli Sausage Pasta Recipe

Broccoli Sausage Pasta Recipe

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This hearty and flavorful broccoli sausage pasta is a perfect one-pan meal that’s easy to make and packed with protein and veggies.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup pasta water (reserved)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil.
  2. Add sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli and Garlic

  1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add broccoli florets and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
  2. Add Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Stir in the reserved pasta water to create a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked sausage and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the sauce.
  2. Let it cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Broccoli Sausage Pasta

  1. Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: If using frozen, thaw and drain excess moisture before adding.
  2. Adjust the Spice Level: Use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes for heat.
  3. Make It Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
  4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 3g

Enjoy this delicious and satisfying broccoli sausage pasta!

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